Entertainment
23 May, 2026
Strumming to own beat
AUSTRALIAN fingerstyle guitarist Elias Bartholomeo will perform in Cairns this month as part of a national tour spanning Queensland.
The solo guitarist is scheduled to play in Cairns at Elixir Music House on 29 May, with additional performances planned in Brisbane, Tamborine Mountain and Atherton.
According to the promoter Sounds of Country, Elias Bartholomeo began playing guitar at the age of four under his grandfather’s guidance.
Immersed in the music of The Beach Boys, Jerry Reed, The Shadows, Chet Atkins and Tommy Emmanuel, he developed his playing style through ear training and collaboration with other musicians.
At the age of 16, he performed alongside Australian guitarist Tommy Emmanuel before building an international solo career and touring the world.
Despite being self-taught and unable to read music, Mr Bartholomeo has continued to develop his fingerstyle technique and perform to audiences across Australia and overseas.
Sounds of Country said the upcoming Queensland tour would give regional audiences the opportunity to see the guitarist perform live.
“Elias embarked on his musical journey at the tender age of four under the guidance of his grandfather,” the promoter said.
“Immersed in the sounds of The Beach Boys, Jerry Reed, The Shadows, Chet Atkins & Tommy Emmanuel, Elias was inspired to emulate their mastery.
“Despite being self-taught and unable to read music, he honed his craft through ear training and collaboration with fellow musicians.”
Further details about the Cairns performance and tour dates are available through Elias Bartholomeo’s official website.
The May tour is expected to bring the guitarist to audiences across Far North Queensland, including Cairns and Atherton.
